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Are Disability Hate Crimes on the Rise?

Sadly, federal data indicates that the number of hate crimes occurring in America targeting people with disabilities has increased.

According to Disability Scoop, there were 95 hate crime offenses related to disability bias that occurred in America in 2014. This was an increase over the 92 that occurred during 2013. The statistics come from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program.

Disability Scoop reports that during the same time, the overall number of hate crimes documented by the FBI decreased in 2014. The data includes “criminal incidents motivated by a bias toward a particular race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or ethnicity.”

The data is gathered from law enforcement statistics nationwide. Disability Scoop reported that of the hate crimes reported in 2014, 69 were committed against people with mental disabilities and 26 were aimed at those with physical disabilities.

Some jurisdictions have specific laws regarding hate crimes, as those suspected of one can face heightened charges and stiffer sentences, if it can be proven that they targeted an individual who may be disabled.

How Does SSDI Help People With Disabilities?

It is unfortunate that people with disabilities are being targeted for hate crimes. We hope this number decreases in the future, as more awareness is raised about the subject.

Many people with disabilities are unable to work because their conditions are severe. These folks may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which can help them pay for items like housing and utilities, allowing them to live more independently.

To obtain SSDI, someone who suffers from mental or physical disabilities would need to show that he or she has earned work credits and his or her condition has worsened. If you have further questions about the SSDI, you can visit our Social Security FAQ page.

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